Elderly and flu shots

According to the Centers for Disease Control, people 65 and older are at greater risk for serious complications from the flu compared to younger adults.

In fact, CDC researchers estimate 90-percent of seasonal flu-related deaths in the United States occur in people 65-years and older.

A flu vaccine protects against flu viruses that research indicates will be most common during the season.

The CDC says people 65-years and older have two flu shots available to choose from , a regular dose flu vaccine and a newer vaccine with a higher dose. However, the CDC and its advisory committee on immunization practices have not expressed a preference for either vaccine.

They’re still not sure if the higher dose provides a stronger immunity, and aside from a low-grade fever and maybe a little soreness at the injection site, the side-effects are minimal.